. ***** I will tell the truth. I was with Borna from the very beginning. In fact, he chose me as his very first Hand[1], the day he turned sixteen. We had been friends from birth, you see. - "Why him?" asked his father, the Hospodar[2]. He screwed up his face as he said it. "There are others who are stronger. Quicker, more agile. Better warriors." - "Because Ljudevit[3] is bright." said Borna. "He is my friend, and I trust him with my life." - "You think that will be enough?" - "There are plenty of strong men, and good warriors. But a man I can trust is a precious commodity." answered his son. "And don't forget his brains: Ljudevit is one of the smartest people I know." The Hospodar scowled, but let his son's choice stand. Even then, Borna was stubborn. Is it any wonder that I followed Borna, when he said things like that? Of course, that comment about my brains didn't endear me to the other warriors. I took some abuse for that, I can tell you, and it wasn't just good-natured ribbing. I had to fight, several times - and I took my lumps. But I knew then that I would follow him until I grew too old to watch his back, or died fighting. Yes, I will tell you the truth. Even when it is not flattering to me, or to Borna.